The holiday season is synonymous with giving back. But often, individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) are viewed only as the recipients of service, rather than the givers. 

This year, we are flipping the script. At DDRC, we know that everyone has a contribution to make. Whether you are an individual with IDD looking to serve your community or a neighbor looking to volunteer alongside us, there is a place for you. 

This guide explores why inclusive volunteering opportunities matter and lists the best ways for people of all abilities to get involved in our community.   

Why are Inclusive Volunteer Opportunities for People with IDD So Important? 

Volunteering is often viewed as a “nice to have,” but for people with IDD, it is often a critical lifeline to the community. Moving from a role of “being helped” to “helping others” builds immense self-esteem and a sense of purpose. 

Combating Isolation 

Social isolation is a significant challenge for our community. Research indicates that 45% of adults with intellectual disabilities report feeling lonely—a rate significantly higher than the general population (UCL). A weekly volunteer shift provides a built-in social circle and a reason to get out of the house. 

Building Job Skills 

Volunteering opportunities are also a pathway to the workforce. According to 2024 data from ThinkWork!, less than 1 in 5 people (16%) with IDD have a paid, integrated job in the community. 

By volunteering at local food banks or shelters, individuals build the exact resume skills—punctuality, task completion, and teamwork—needed to close that gap. Many of our Colorado community-based services incorporate volunteering specifically to help develop these vocational skills. 

Why is Being an Ally and Volunteering With Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Crucial? 

When you volunteer alongside someone with a disability, you aren’t just helping a cause; you are building a bridge. Many people simply haven’t had the chance to work side-by-side with an adult with autism or Down syndrome. Sharing this experience is a win-win for everyone involved.   

This doesn’t just help the IDD community; it helps you. Research shows that 77% of volunteers report that volunteering improved their mental health and wellbeing (NCVO). When you add the layer of social connection with our members, that “helper’s high” is amplified for everyone involved. 

7 Inclusive Volunteering Opportunities For People with IDD and Allies 

Looking for the right fit? Here are seven high-success environments where individuals with IDD can thrive as volunteers, and where community allies can join in. 

1. Food Banks and Pantries (Sorting and Packing) 

Food banks are excellent environments for inclusive volunteering opportunities, which are often routine-based and can be perfect for individuals who thrive on structure.  Many of the volunteers may work on the assembly line next to each other, enjoying each other’s company and conversation.    

2. Community Gardens and Parks 

Nature is therapeutic. Tasks like weeding, watering, or planting are sensory-rich and allow for “parallel play”—working near each other. This is a great way to practice physical skills similar to those used in inclusive recreation. 

3. Connection: Animal Shelters 

Animals don’t judge. For many individuals, caring for cats or walking dogs offers a deep emotional connection without the pressure of speech.  Both volunteers can work alongside each other, managing leashes, cleaning cages, and bonding with animals and each other.   

4. Meals on Wheels / Delivery Services 

It turns a “ride” into a “mission.” Delivering meals is a great way for individuals to be in their community, provide a vital service, and to see the joy they bring to others directly. 

5. Event Greeters and Ushers 

For those individuals who are a bit more on the extroverted side,  being the “face” of a holiday event may be a great fit.  . Welcoming guests requires high social energy and can offer immediate positive feedback (smiles and “hellos”). 

6. Virtual Volunteering and Letter Writing 

Not everyone can get out during the cold Colorado winter. Writing holiday cards for seniors or veterans is a fantastic fine-motor activity that can be done from a warm living room or a day program center. 

7. Hosting a Donation Drive (Coat or Toy Drive) 

Instead of going somewhere, the individual becomes the “hub.” They can help organize, sort, and count donations collected at their church, school, or participating organizations.  Organizing items and following a process are great ways to build skills relevant toother activities, such as cooking classes for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, where sequencing and preparation are key. 

Tips for Success: How to Support Inclusive Volunteering

Whether you are a volunteer coordinator or an ally volunteering alongside us, these tips ensure a positive experience for everyone. 

• Focus on Strengths, Not Deficits: The best volunteer matches happen when you look at what the individual can do (e.g., great attention to detail) rather than what they cannot. 

• Patience and practice: The first day might be slow. Remember that “doing it together” is the most important part. 

• Communication Basics: everyone has their own style of communication, whether that is verbal or non-verbal, and it is a key to a successful volunteering experience for everyone. 

A Call to Local Businesses: Why You Should Host Volunteers with IDD 

Are you a business owner in Jefferson County or our surrounding community? Opening your doors to volunteers with IDD can transform your workplace culture. 

Current employees often feel more pride in their company when it engages in inclusive community outreach. Furthermore, having volunteers with different abilities brings diverse and inclusive perspectives and joy to the workplace. You don’t have to do it alone—DDRC can help facilitate these connections and provide the support you need. 

Give Back This Giving Season and Beyond with IDD Inclusive Volunteering Opportunities 

Volunteering is a universal language. It doesn’t matter your ability level; everyone has the capacity to care. 

Are you ready to get involved? Whether you are a business looking to host inclusive volunteering opportunities or an ally wanting to join our efforts, we invite you to connect with us. Let’s make this season about true community connection. 

Contact DDRC today.